Dysgeusia: A Distorted Sense Of Taste

What Is Dysgeusia?

Dysgeusia, sometimes called parageusia, is characterized by a distorted sense of taste. Individuals with dysgeusia do not taste flavors the same way that others o, or they do not taste flavors the way that they once did. They may also have unpleasant tastes, such as a metallic taste, in their mouth at random times that interfere with their ability to taste other things. Dysgeusia can also be associated with dysosmia, a distorted sense of smell.

Causes

Dysgeusia can occur on its own with no known cause or can occur as the result of the following underlying conditions or factors:

Zinc deficiency

Chemotherapy

Asthma treatment

Distortions in the taste buds

Chiari Malformation

Certain medications

Anti-histamines

Antiproliferative drugs

Beta blockers

Brainstem damage

Diabetes

Tonsillectomy surgery

Gastric reflux

Lead poisoning

Menopause

Burning mouth syndrome

Types

Ageusia

Ageusia is closely linked with dysgeusia, but differs in that it is defined by the complete inability to taste anything at all, rather than having a distorted sense of taste.

Hypogeusia

Hypogeusia is linked to dysgeusia, but refers to a slightly decreased ability to taste flavors.

Symptoms

Distorted taste

Metallic taste in mouth

Not recognizing familiar tastes

Distorted sense of smell

Diagnosis

Your primary care physician may be able to diagnose dysgeusia, but will likely refer you to an ear, nose and throat specialist or neurologist to confirm the diagnosis and rule out certain underlying causes.

Treatment

Treating dysgeusia relies on treating the underlying cause of the distorted sense of taste. If your dysgeusia is the result of certain medications, you may need to change your medication or adjust the dosage. If your dysgeusia is the result of conditions like diabetes or certain neurological conditions, you may be unable to resolve it. Fortunately, dysgeusia is not life threatening or dangerous to your health. Patients may adjust to their distorted sense of taste over time.

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